As an intern for Defenders of Wildlife’s New Mexico program, I have learned how critical this species is to the landscape of the West.
The uncertain future of the beloved pinyon jay rests upon the health and survival of the piñon-juniper woodlands. In the face of severe tree-cutting and climate change, viable piñon-juniper habitat is becoming scarce and continues to shrink at a concerning rate.
Consequently, over the past 50 years pinyon jay populations have dropped by 85%, warranting protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). However, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service has delayed any further decisions until 2028, despite substantial data of pinyon jay endangerment.
This summer, I am working with Defenders of Wildlife to advocate for protection for this keystone species and support the treasured piñon-juniper ecosystem. Thus far, I have learned that the pinyon jay is a companion to a diversity of people, plants and animals alike and by protecting this bird, we are moving towards protecting the community.
The FWS must not delay its review of the pinyon jay. Pinyon jays are recognized as a species of high concern, and the delaying of ESA status stalls the effort to protect them significantly. The population is predicted to face an accelerated decline, likely plunging the species into dangerous territory and making conservation more difficult.
Prolonging ESA protection for the pinyon jay cannot be an option. To combat future threats to the pinyon jay, join the Defenders of Wildlife in urging the FWS to reconsider the timeline.
Achieving a timely ESA listing for the pinyon jay is crucial for its conservation. Seeing that every season climate change affects the piñon-juniper range and brings increased cutting for agriculture and development, forest will only continue to shrink. The pinyon jay cannot wait until 2028.
Pinyon jays are vital for the longevity of their ecosystems. Pinyon jays, along with many other bird species, are ecosystem engineers. They play crucial roles in constructing the environments we love and adore.
When caching seeds for the winter, pinyon jays indirectly plant piñon seeds that become part of the woodlands we see today. Without these little blue birds, there is a risk of diminished ecosystems in the West. Pinyon jays and piñon-juniper woodlands are interconnected so that the decline of one determines the status of the other.
Delaying ESA protection disservices the pinyon jay, piñon-juniper woodlands and every species — including humans — that benefit from its role in the environment. Leaving the pinyon jay unprotected by the ESA risks the potential extinction of this charismatic species in addition to striking the lifeforce of the iconic piñon-juniper woodlands.
Defenders of Wildlife encourages the FWS to promptly support pinyon jay conservation and list the species under the ESA for heightened protection and aid.
May Ling Roberts is a junior at Pomona College and a summer intern for Defenders of Wildlife.
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